Regular Cleaning (Recommended Weekly)
Regular cleaning is essential to maintain hygiene, prevent buildup, and ensure the longevity of your PurrVia fountain and its pump. We recommend cleaning the fountain at least once a week.
1. Disassembly:
- Unplug the fountain from the power source.
- Carefully empty any remaining water from the basin.
- Disassemble the fountain components:
- Remove the stainless steel lid and spout.
- Take out the filter and filter tray/holder.
- Remove the pump from the basin. (The pump itself can be further disassembled for cleaning - see step 3).
2. Cleaning Stainless Steel Parts:
The stainless steel basin, lid, and spout are designed for easy cleaning.
- Dishwasher Safe: You can place these stainless steel parts in the dishwasher (top rack recommended) for convenient cleaning.
- Hand Washing: Alternatively, wash them by hand using warm water and a mild, non-abrasive dish soap. Use a soft sponge or cloth. Avoid using steel wool or harsh abrasive cleaners, as these can scratch the stainless steel.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Ensure all soap residue is rinsed off completely before reassembly.
3. Cleaning the Pump:
Cleaning the pump is crucial for maintaining water flow and extending its life. Mineral deposits and debris can accumulate and affect performance.
- Disassemble the Pump: Most submersible pumps can be easily taken apart. Typically, this involves:
- Removing the pump's front cover/filter screen (it usually snaps off or slides).
- Carefully removing the impeller cover (often a small, round piece).
- Gently pulling out the impeller (it's usually magnetic and may have small fan-like blades).
- Clean Components: Use the small cleaning brush (often included with your fountain or pump cleaning kit) to scrub all parts of the pump, including the impeller, impeller housing, and covers. Pay close attention to nooks and crannies where buildup can occur. You can use a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar to help dissolve stubborn mineral deposits (soak for 15-30 minutes if necessary, then scrub).
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse all pump components with clean water to remove any soap, vinegar, or debris.
- Reassemble the Pump: Carefully put the pump back together.
Pump Care Tip: If you notice reduced water flow, the pump is often the culprit and likely needs a good cleaning!
4. Cleaning the Filter Tray & Other Parts:
Wash the plastic filter tray/holder and any other small non-electrical parts with mild soap and water. Rinse thoroughly.
5. Reassembly:
Once all parts are clean and dry, reassemble the fountain. Ensure the pump is securely placed and the filter is correctly positioned.
Filter Replacement (Every 2-4 Weeks)
The triple-action filter plays a vital role in keeping your cat's water fresh, clean, and appealing.
- Frequency: Replace the filter every 2 to 4 weeks. If you have multiple cats or notice the water isn't as fresh, you may need to change it more frequently.
- How to Replace:
- Remove the old filter from the filter tray/holder.
- Rinse the new filter under cool running water for a minute or two before use. This helps remove any loose carbon dust (which is harmless but can discolor the water initially).
- Place the new filter into the tray/holder, ensuring it's positioned correctly (usually with a specific side facing up or out – check filter instructions if provided).
Pro Tip: Mark your calendar or set a phone reminder to replace filters regularly. Fresh filters mean fresher water for your cat!
You can purchase replacement filters for your PurrVia fountain here.
Maintaining Water Level
Always ensure the water level in the fountain basin is sufficient.
- Prevent Pump Damage: Running the pump with too little water (or dry) can damage it. Most pumps need to be fully submerged to operate correctly and stay cool.
- Check Daily: Check the water level daily and refill as needed with fresh, cool water. The 3.2L capacity of the PurrVia fountain helps reduce refill frequency, but it's still good practice to monitor it.
Water Quality Tip: Use filtered or bottled water if your tap water is heavily chlorinated or has a strong mineral content. This can extend filter life and improve taste for your cat.
Important Don'ts
- DO NOT use harsh chemical cleaners, bleach, or highly abrasive scouring pads on any part of the fountain, especially the stainless steel. This can damage the finish and compromise hygiene.
- DO NOT run the pump dry. Always ensure there is enough water in the basin.
- DO NOT submerge the USB power adapter or its cable in water. Only the pump itself is designed to be submersible.
Safety First: Always unplug the fountain before cleaning or maintenance. Never handle electrical components with wet hands.
Need Further Assistance?
If you have followed these care instructions and are still experiencing issues, or if you have any other questions about your PurrVia fountain, please don't hesitate to contact our customer support team. We're here to help ensure you and your cat enjoy your fountain for years to come!
Quick Support: When contacting support, please have your order number ready and describe the specific issue you're experiencing. This helps us assist you more efficiently.